LAS VEGAS – Frank Fertitta Jr., the father of Ultimate Fighting Championship co-owners Frank Fertitta III and Lorenzo Fertitta, died Friday following heart surgery in Los Angeles, the Las Vegas Sun newspaper reported.
Fertitta, 70, died at Cesars-Sinai Hospital, the newspaper reported.
He was one of the leaders in the Nevada gaming community and was the founder of Station Casinos, which now has 18 properties. In 1976, Fertitta Jr. opened his first resort, The Casino, which was later renamed Palace Station. It became a popular destination for locals. He began his career as a dealer at the old Stardust Resort.
Fertitta was also known for his philanthropy and charitable endeavors.
At UFC 101, Lorenzo Fertitta was supposed to appear for a fan question-and-answer session before the weigh-in on Aug. 7. He did not appear and UFC president Dana White announced he'd had to return to Las Vegas for a personal matter.
Fertitta is survived by his wife of 51 years, Victoria; his sons, Frank III and Lorenzo; a daughter, Delise Sartini; nine grandchildren and sisters Olivia Deppe and Linda Ramirez.
